Pacaya at night, heat, light and lava flows

A friendly and familiar path receives us in our climb the active volcano of Guatemala 's most famous in the world: the Pacaya.

He has been several months in renewed activity. Its cone is not scalable for security reasons, but the lava projections presented in the bottom let you zoom in as much as you want, in fact our night ascent could feel the smell of roast some curious wanted insurance try placing. (Do not believe us? Go and see other things that do not believe it).

Perhaps you read this note of curiosity or because "dream" someday but can not bring yourself up and you just see the photos. For there is no excuse because we found during ascent and descent, among the crowd, ladies and gentlemen of advanced age, even with a cane. Some people came to horses, or "taxi" as friends call them.

As children, we found a lot, some so small they were still in arms. Needless to say a number of pregnant women. (Of course, by month of pregnancy is not recommended, it depends.)

In retrospect, climbed a lot of people and we found the parking lot is packed.

How far?

For nothing. Forty-five minutes, they're driving from the city to the volcano. The climb takes at least an hour depending on your physical condition. This promotion is entertaining and, above all, is of low difficulty.

The first thing seen from the first viewpoint, which gives an excellent view of boilers, is the enlightened city that you leave behind. It is worth mentioning because it is a pleasant sight.

But the path continues to a greater experience.

The sky turned red

Upon arrival at the final fence, where there are some picnic tables and space for camping, you'll see that lava has made its way up there.

The original path that has continued since that part is no longer visible, because the lava has covered. We all spend a few minutes of confusion, not knowing precisely where to go. The easiest thing was to approach in a straight line crossing the dry wash, right? nothing to see. The lava apparently protects dry wash under their innocent appearance on, even ordinary. Without difficulty we could feel the heat and soon found the path that went from the left.

The first thing that jumped out at us was the sight of silhouettes of people commenting on the wonder of lava and the sky painted red by the characteristic color of the lava.

In some places, grass, families or couples rested with the lights off not just seeing the picture, but also enjoy the warm atmosphere provided in contrast to the wind.

But later it was the best.

Lava everywhere

In the past we promoted with different groups of friends, and it was normal for a river of lava, or the tremendous mass before he made his way to different parts lit.

Now it was different. It could see rivers of lava everywhere and the old ravine where hundreds of people write their names with rocks, was completely covered.

In each part could be seen lit a good group of people playing, taking pictures and enjoying the heat. At times the wind blows against it, carrying with it heat and vibrating the glowing lava. In those moments all kept a respectful silence and alertness. Then, the smiles and jokes appeared again.

How close?

After a few moments, the horrifying lava and seems harmless, we are more familiar. It's so close, making their way, that you can play if you wish.

Several children and adults trunks and branches inserted in the most vivid of the lava, instantly removing the wood burning thousands of sparks. Not exactly a torch, but reminds the Christmas fireworks. Burns strongly.

Foreign and domestic enjoy this time, and so much our surprise, we decided to schedule a new promotion to actually see the magnitude of the rivers, no doubt, have completely changed the landscape.

If you go to visit the Pacaya

Remember to take enough water, some food, and despite the heat, never enough chumpa in case it rains, or you will see useful when you protect the intense heat even closer.

Admission is Q10.00 for nationals, you can rent a horse to climb more easily. If you climb at night, do not forget to bring a good flashlight and NOT separate you from the groups.

Guatemalan Red Cross has warned people who have lost by not knowing the place, and similarly, the place IS NOT THE SAME. You will see that the paths are covered and it is necessary to deviate in several sections.

Follow the groups, listening to the guides and enjoy this beauty.

Do not underestimate her, many people have traveled from overseas only to see it.